42 And Judas and his brethren saw that evils were multiplied, and that the forces were encamping in their borders; and they took knowledge of the king’s words which he had commanded, to destroy the people and make an end of them;
43 and they said each man to his neighbor, Let us raise up the ruin of our people, and let us fight for our people and the holy place.
44 And the congregation was gathered together, that they might be ready for battle, and that they might pray, and ask for mercy and compassion.
45 And Jerusalem was without inhabitant as a wilderness, there was none of her offspring that went in or went out; and the sanctuary was trodden down, and the sons of strangers were in the citadel, the Gentiles lodged therein; and joy was taken away from Jacob, and the pipe and the harp ceased.
46 And they gathered themselves together, and came to Mizpeh, over against Jerusalem; for in Mizpeh was there a place of prayer aforetime for Israel.
47 And they fasted that day, and put on sackcloth, and put ashes upon their heads, and tore their clothes,
48 and laid open the book of the law, concerning which the Gentiles were wont to inquire, seeking the likenesses of their idols.